DVD Player Opinions

cambir
cambir Posts: 1,046
edited June 2010 in Electronics
Cambridge Audio DVD89 or Denon DVD-2910?

Was using a Cambridge Audio DVD89 that I got from a member here. Recently picked up a Denon DVD-2910 to try. The Denon seems to maybe have a slight advantage over the Cambridge in my setup, but it also struggles to keep cool enough in my cabinet. Trying to decide between keeping the Denon or going back to the Cambridge.

(Limitations of my setup: tv is only 720p; receiver needs upgrading)
Any votes between these two players for mostly DVD playback?

...or Denon DVD-2930ci?
I've heard this model does better with the heat issue. Anyone have experience with it? Would this player have any other advantages over the other 2 players?

Any other suggestions in the used market?
Post edited by cambir on

Comments

  • kawizx9r
    kawizx9r Posts: 5,150
    edited June 2010
    I'd go with BlueFox' idea, especially now since they're significantly cheaper than they used to be just a year ago.

    How often do you watch movies over listening to music?

    I ask because some can chime in and recommend a player with a good DAC if music is going to be your thing with this player. Most bluray players with a decent DAC almost always have internal decoding as well so you can take advantage of the new codecs (Dolby TrueHD and Master DTS) and send it out via analog outs to an older receiver.

    Go new and you'll have peace of mind of having a new player, or go used (videogon.com/audiogon.com) and you can spend just as much for an even better/higher-end player.
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  • comfortablycurt
    comfortablycurt Posts: 6,745
    edited June 2010
    I own both a Cambridge DVD89 and a Denon DVD-2910...and both have seen a lot of time in my 2 channel rig.

    IMO, the 2910 is the much better sounding player. The Cambridge just seems somewhat lifeless sounding in comparison...sort of sterile, and a bit edgier sounding. The Denon seems to have a more natural, slightly warmer tonality. Less glare on the upper end...and overall just much more musical sounding.

    They're both fine players...but I'd definitely give the edge to the 2910.
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  • cambir
    cambir Posts: 1,046
    edited June 2010
    BlueFox wrote: »
    Get a BlueRay. They also play DVDs.

    Thought about it...don't really need/desire the format.

    kawizx9r wrote: »
    I'd go with BlueFox' idea, especially now since they're significantly cheaper than they used to be just a year ago.

    How often do you watch movies over listening to music?

    I ask because some can chime in and recommend a player with a good DAC if music is going to be your thing with this player. Most bluray players with a decent DAC almost always have internal decoding as well so you can take advantage of the new codecs (Dolby TrueHD and Master DTS) and send it out via analog outs to an older receiver.

    Go new and you'll have peace of mind of having a new player, or go used (videogon.com/audiogon.com) and you can spend just as much for an even better/higher-end player.

    98% movies...maybe an sacd in the future. Don't really have a need/desire for all the new HD codecs yet. Probably won't buy new, or bluray, as I am looking in the $150 (max) range. Is there a universal player out there for that price point?

    Thanks for the suggestions!
  • cambir
    cambir Posts: 1,046
    edited June 2010
    I own both a Cambridge DVD89 and a Denon DVD-2910...and both have seen a lot of time in my 2 channel rig.

    IMO, the 2910 is the much better sounding player. The Cambridge just seems somewhat lifeless sounding in comparison...sort of sterile, and a bit edgier sounding. The Denon seems to have a more natural, slightly warmer tonality. Less glare on the upper end...and overall just much more musical sounding.

    They're both fine players...but I'd definitely give the edge to the 2910.

    Thnks for the post Curt. I agree the edge goes to the Denon...except for the heat issue I have experienced during movies. Guess I need a different cabinet with more clearance available.
  • rmknotts123
    rmknotts123 Posts: 144
    edited June 2010
    Denon has always provided amazing products. The Denon definitely has the edge!
  • bsturgeon89
    bsturgeon89 Posts: 128
    edited June 2010
    I just picked up an OPPO 980H and I love it. I picked mine up for $99 off amazon used and there are always a few on the bay. It is a universal player and will play all formats including SACD. It also has 8 channel output which is nice. I mainly use it for audio purposes but it does have a pretty good picture for DVD

    It is worth a look. It received great reviews by consumers.